Know a good ecotour guide?

The board of directors of the Hawaii Ecotourism Association recently announced creation of a new award for 2013 — Ecotour Guide of the Year. The award is open to any employee of an association member. Nominees should embody the core assets of quality ecotourism: effective interpretation, conservation of natural resources, and authentic cultural experiences.

HEA member operators can nominate their employees for this newly created award. Three finalists will be chosen and the voting process will be opened to the general public. The winner will be announced at the HEA annual awards luncheon in May.

Nominees must have good communication skills, exhibit understanding and implementation of traditional Hawaiian hospitality, and set a good example for promoting sustainable tourism in Hawaii.

Nominations will be accepted through April 5. To submit a nomination, email HEA at admin@hawaiiecotourism.org. Include “Ecotour Guide of the Year Nomination” in the subject line of the email. The body of the email must includethe HEA member organization/employer, the nominee’s name and ecotourism credentials (trainings, certifications, etc.

In 250 words or less, explain why your nominee should receive the award, and provide contact information for the person or persons submitting the nomination.

Finalists will be announced on the HEA Facebook page on April 12, at which time voting will commence.

“Hawaii has some of the best guides anywhere, and HEA looks forward to recognizing the best and brightest in the islands,” said an organization spokesman.

Hawaii Ecotourism Association is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization whose mission is to protect Hawaii’s unique environment and culture through the promotion of responsible travel and educational programs aimed at the public and visitor industry relating to ecotourism issues. HEA is committed to diversifying the travel industry of Hawaii through advocacy for ecotourism to protect Hawaii’s unique natural environment and cultures. Visit www.hawaiiecotourism.org.